Keenan's at the Pier is right near Boulevard Park and the boardwalk. Photo credit: Kali Klotz-Brooks
Whatcom County winters might be known to be a little glum and drizzly, but talk to any local and they’ll tell you how beautiful our summers are. Long days make for warm evenings and stunning sunset views that pair well with the region’s tasty bites. Given that Bellingham is known for utilizing the local farm fresh foods and delicious seafood, there are plenty of great outdoor dining options for every palette out there.
Outdoor Seating
Let’s get the important things out of the way first – pizza. I know what you are wondering. Where in town can I eat some of the best pizza of my life on the roof of a building? Consider FatPie Pizza to be the only answer. With sweeping, high-up views and heat lamps to keep you comfortable even after the sun goes down, you’ll want to continue eating pizza all night long.
Enjoy morning on the bay at Keenan’s at the Pier. Photo credit: Kali Klotz-Brooks.
Pepper Sisters is another fun option with outdoor seating. The views might not be from a rooftop, but this funky, fun restaurant specializes in delicious southwestern foods with tons of vegetarian and vegan options. Located in the Alley District, Pepper Sisters is also near the Honeymoon and Green Frog, making it easy to extend your day into a festive evening.
Waterfront Seating
If you are looking to catch the sunset on the bay while you dine, check out Keenan’s at the Pier. This “casual, yet elegant” restaurant overlooks the bay from the south end of Boulevard Park. Perfect for relaxing with a glass of wine from the restaurant’s vast wine list and diving into Steamed Manila Clams with your significant other.
Keenan’s at the Pier is right near Boulevard Park and the boardwalk. The best of Bellingham at your fingertips! Photo credit: Kali Klotz-Brooks.
Another great option that provides a similar style as Keenan’s is The Lighthouse Bar and Grill. This upscale restaurant makes sourcing local foods a top priority and has plenty of options for those with food allergies or sensitivities. And while the patio is sure to provide views to indulge your wandering eye, the lovely meal presentation is sure to do the same. Give into all your senses at The Lighthouse.
Another option is Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill (and Anthony’s at Squalicum harbor just down the way!). Known for their steaks and pacific caught seafood, the Bellingham location offers a large outdoor seating area that makes dining extra delightful.
From both Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill and The Lighthouse Bar and Grill, you can watch boats travel in and out of the marina. Photo credit: Kali Klotz-Brooks.
Then, down the street a short jaunt, you will find Nicki’s Bella Marina Restaurant and Bar. If you are looking for a gosh-dang-good burger to pair with your bay views, this is the place to be! Enjoy the fish and chips, recently voted best in Bellingham, and maybe a deep-fried Twinkie for dessert. You can’t go wrong with their fun atmosphere (who doesn’t love place with a good food challenge? Check out their Man Vs Food burger!) and awesome patio.
Outdoor Happy Hour
If you are looking for something new this summer, northwater restaurant has an awesome happy hour and comfortable outdoor patio. Enjoy a yummy cocktail that has been crafted with tender love and care, and share a few seafood corn dogs – a signature dish that you won’t find anywhere else. Plus, northwater has not just one, but two happy hours every day: 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 – 11:00 p.m., plus all day on Sundays.
So get out and enjoy all the delicious and scenic places Whatcom County has to offer!
Straight from the oven to you, grab a slice or an entire pie at Pizza'zza, with two locations in Bellingham. Photo credit: James Haddock Photography.
Everyone has their favorites. Some like pepperoni. Others just want plain cheese. Some want everything but the kitchen sink. What we can all agree on is that pizza is delicious. And we in Whatcom County are blessed with many great options. I polled my family and friends and came up with this Whatcom County Pizza Round-Up. Read on for the best cheesy deliciousness around!
Rudy’s Pizzeria
1232 N. State Street, Bellingham
360-647-7547
Dan, Soren and Finn’s favorite: Rudy’s Pizzeria. We typically go Wednesday nights when a large one topping is only ten bucks. $10.00! Since Finn only likes cheese, it’s a no brainer. We like the basic pizzas the best. If we’re starving, we’ll add a cheese breadstick. Dad gets the outside piece. Dan also likes the Mama Rudy covered in delicious veggies. The salads are high quality, simple and bountiful. Balsamic Vinaigrette, please! They have good beer variety as Rudy’s is coupled with the Up and Up. A local IPA, please! They also have free delivery locally in Bellingham. Reserve an area for a party or group for free. We also dig the custom wood booths and the mosaics that adorn the walls. It’s a great, classic, college pizza joint.
This creative pizza comes with chicken, bacon, onions, cilantro and chipotle BBQ. Photo courtesy: Coconut Kennys/Facebook.
Coconut Kenny’s
2220 James St, Bellingham – 360-647-9273
1740 Labounty Dr #1, Ferndale – 360-656-5974
8122 Guide Meridian, Lynden – 360-392-8435
Kori likes Coconut Kenny’s best. “Their gluten free (GF) pies are the best in the County,” she proclaims. The GF crust is buttery and crunchy – taste like real pizza, not cardboard. Toppings are delicious and so is the sauce. Friendly service, fun atmosphere. They have three locations. The original on James Street comes complete with a Hawaiian-like feel just south of Kulshan Brewery.
Cindy told me about her new summertime tradition going to Coconut Kenny’s for their Mac ‘n’ Cheese pizza. “When my twin nephews visited from the east coast last year, I took them while the rest of our group was at Kulshan. Coconut Kenny’s will actually walk over to Kulshan with your order – or you can call in and they will deliver! The boys were seriously interested in the mac ‘n’ cheese pizza and since auntie’s are allowed to spoil, I agreed with the condition that half be without bacon (so us non-bacon eaters could try it). The staff conferred and agreed only to do so with a warning that it could change the integrity of the pizza We agreed.” The boys polished it off with forks at Kulshan while we enjoyed a leisurely afternoon. Cindy continues, “My nephews couldn’t wait to get it again this summer! This time they each got their own personal sized mac ‘n’ cheese pizza (with bacon, of course) and ate with gusto, allowing the adults to pick only tiny bits of the buttery, pastry-like crust from their pies.”
Soren likes the Spicy Hawaiian – spicy meat with sweet pineapple is a great combination. Although we’re supposed to be on point about pizza, the Pipeline Sandwich is the bomb. Au jus and roast beef with island sauce on sweet Hawaiian bread rolls is a unique and delicious combo. It’s enough for two or three!
Ovn’s Margherita Pizza comes topped with arugula, shaved Parmesan, olive oil and a squeeze of lemon. Photo courtesy: Ovn Wood Fired Pizza/Facebook.
Övn Wood Fired Pizza
1148 10th St, Bellingham
360-393-4327
Melissa’s fave is Övn Wood fired pizza. “The crust is simply the best,” she describes and their GF curst is hands-down the best she’s tried. They do a thin crust perfectly cooked pizza that is right up this east coast girl’s alley! Their pizzas have the most delicious and original topping combos. To top it off the first Monday of the month they do family-style all you can eat where they just keep bringing around pizzas as they come out of the oven and include a simple help-yourself salad bar. “I think it’s like 12 bucks!” Melissa exclaims.
Stacee, WhatcomTalk’s Community Manager agrees. It’s her favorite place too!
And if you need to work off that pizza you just ate, check out Melissa’s new yoga studio: Flux Power Yoga 1140 10th St. Suite 101 in Fairhaven right next to Övn. Infrared floors and a quick, full body workout will strengthen and revive you.
Cascade Pizza is simply delicious. Photo courtesy: Cascade Pizza.
Cascade Pizza
2431 Meridian St, Bellingham
360-671-0999
Cascade Pizza has been a Bellingham institution for decades. Greek style pizza with cheese over a buttery crust is tough to beat. Old fashioned sit-down service is nice. Their GF crust is a favorite in the neighborhood. I admit, growing up on Greek style pizza from the likes of Pizza Bank in Kirkland, Pegasus Pizza in West Seattle and Olympia Pizza in Arlington, you can’t and don’t want to avoid it. Simply delicious. Cascade Pizza has this old school feeling to it that I can’t describe. If you’re missing your 1970s to 1980s childhood Greek pizza place, this is it! Their pasta menu also pleases. Again, stay on target (pizza) but, pepperoni baked lasagna? A must try.
A raw ball of dough keeps little hands busy at La Flamma Wood Fire Pizza.
LaFiamma
200 E. Chestnut Street, Bellingham
360-647-0060
LaFiamma provides downtown Bellingham with delicious wood fired pizza. My favorite is the Sofia. Fresh rosemary, thinly sliced prosciutto (salted ham, thinly sliced) and red onion. Game on! This place is great with little kids. When it opened, the original pies were named after the children of friends. Does that make Sofia about 18 years old? To pass the time, they give kids a hunk of pizza dough to play with. Signature cocktails are a not so recent update (remember Boundary Bay Reefnetter?!) which can also calm the mom or dad caring for the kids. Outside on the deck is great with the smell of the salt air off the Bay. Lunch specials are a great value with the pizza and salad combo or the Chicken Panini (oops, there I go again, off pizza point.)
FatPie Pizza has lunch slices ready to go. Photo courtesy: FatPie Pizza.
Fatpie Pizza offers three crusts. The Chicago deep dish round crust, the Detroit medium crust in a square shape and now the Brooklyn, a New York style thin crust pizza. My favorite is the Lake Erie with roasted tomato confit and artichoke hearts. The kids will enjoy the crust variety and can choose their own toppings. Mom and dad will enjoy it all on the rooftop balcony at sunset.
Fairhaven Pizza
Fairhaven: 1307 11th St, Bellingham
360-383-5449
Fairhaven Pizza has some fun combination pies. My favorite is the Border Patrol which mixes Canadian (Aye!) with Mexican (Caliente!) inspired toppings to make one great pie. The location in historic Fairhaven complete with brick building built in the late 1800’s provides an old school atmosphere with modern and classic topping choices. Add local beers and presto! A great option for the family or first date. Outside seating on the sidewalk in summer is especially great.
Straight from the oven to you, grab a slice or an entire pie at Pizza’zza, with two locations in Bellingham. Photo credit: William Annett.
Pizza’zza satisfies the New York style folks with two locations at the bottom of the hills (Alabama and South Hill). My favorite is the Little Italy with fresh basil. It’s one of the few pizza places to also have burgers (sacrilege to purists but saintly for families with a picky eater.) It’s also a great take-home place after a day at the park or beach with their convenient locations. And don’t forget their mobile location, Pizza’zza Mobile!
Plus they’ve recently remodeled their Fairhaven location and now have 74 seats and 18 taps plus a bottle shop featuring handmade live-edge tables. The company also purchases 85 percent of their food from Whatcom and Skagit producers including pizza cheese made by Ferndale Farmstead.
Goat Mountain Pizza regularly gets raves for its scrumptious slices. Photo courtesy: Goat Mountain Pizza.
Goat Mountain Pizza
211 W. Holly Street, Bellingham
360-510-6336
Goat Mountain Pizza started in a hole in the wall location across from the Wild Buffalo a block west of where it is now. It’s now in the old Film Is Truth building which is spacious and inviting. Pizza by weight! Cut square? Unique combinations of caramelized onions and arugula? Yes please! Potato and bacon – unique! Locally sourced vegetables add to the flavor of the pizzas and organic salads. Top it off with a local brew or artisanal cocktail. If you’ve still got room, their cookies are almost famous. Plan for them!
Gusto Wood Fired Pizza
According to WhatcomTalk reader, Amy, Gusto Wood Fired Pizza offers the only true Neapolitan pizza in Bellingham. She and her sons have been eating their pizza almost every Saturday at the Bellingham Farmers Market for nearly six years. “Sometimes we go just for lunch!” she said. “We’ve even been part of a wedding dinner that they catered. A few months ago Gusto Pizza was mentioned in Bellingham Alive as the must have food when you go to the farmers market.”
Make Your Own
There’s only one thing better than fresh pizza – lots of fresh pizza!
A Sunday night tradition since my kids were babies is homemade pizza night. Over the years I’ve developed an easy dough recipe. Add marinara sauce (yes, I can grow my own tomatoes but cheat by adding tomato paste, but Costco has a great two jar pack), shredded mozzarella, parmesan and whatever toppings you want. In fall, fresh picked chanterelle and prince mushrooms. In summer, fresh sliced tomatoes and oregano leaves. Always, fresh diced rosemary. Twenty minutes at 420 (dude) degrees and BAM! Homemade pie.
Give it a try! Tinker! Develop your own signature pie.
Cindy’s son Jack has had the summer of making pizza. He is pretty “freaking” proud of it. He actually cut out cardboard in circles and made his own frozen pizzas this week. He’ll be delighted to make it for friends so I’m hoping for an invite to pizza night soon.
Dan’s Pizza Crust Recipe and Process
1 ¼ cups tap water
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 ½ teaspoons breadmaker yeast
1 teaspoon sugar (white, brown, whatever)
Mix a bit to activate yeast
Add 2 cups all-purpose bread flour
Add about 1 cup whole wheat flour maybe more
Mix until dough is balanced between stuck to bowl and peeling easily from the bowl.
Let sit 2 – 8 hours in cool place.
Rework as you have time and like.
3 teaspoons salt (+/-) just before final working and thinning.
Roll out to fit pizza pan (roller with flour or toss it!)
Precook dough if you like it crispy, about 5 minutes
Add marinara sauce
Add toppings and cheese
Bake, 420 degrees, about 20 minutes – cheese a bit brown and bubbling.
Let rest 10 minutes, cut and serve
Did we miss something great? Drop me a line at submit@whatcomtalk.com and let me know what your favorite pizza place is and why. It just might make the list!
Casa Que Pasa's cantina, known as the Tequila Research Institute, has over 115 different tequilas to choose from. Photo credit: Sarah Day.
A long-time favorite of the Bellingham food scene, Casa Que Pasa will celebrate its 25th year in business in 2018. This milestone alone is something they should be very proud of, in a town where food establishments go in and out of business so frequently. It is truly impressive that Casa Que Pasa has been a stalwart in the Bellingham food industry for such a long period of time.
Originally created as a weekly special, the BLT-ski has become one of Casa Que Pasa’s best-selling items. Photo credit: Sarah Day.
Known for its Potato, Rancho Deluxe and Bean Supreme burritos, Casa Que Pasa is the perfect spot for lunch, dinner or late-night cravings. The Mexican-inspired restaurant is open from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily. Possibly the most characteristic quality of Casa Que Pasa is their portion size. I am not exaggerating when I say a Potato Burrito can get you through at least two meals. These generous portions, along with their unique recipes, set them apart from other burrito-driven restaurants in Bellingham.
“We serve up 300, or more, burritos a day,” Co-Owner Spencer Willows says. The restaurant doesn’t only serve burritos though, the menu is diverse and stacked with a variety of different dishes. From the BLT-ski Quesadilla to the Hand-Made Jalapeno Poppers, the kitchen staff at Casa Que Pasa makes sure to keep it fresh and interesting. Some of these new food items started as specials and later became menu staples. “We’re constantly trying out new specials and some have become favorites,” Willows says. They even offer specific specials depending on the day of the week, such as the popular Saffle’s Sassy Tacos on Fridays and the Guacka Flocka Flame on Wednesdays.
In addition to the restaurant side, Casa Que Pasa is also famed for their backroom cantina, otherwise known as the Tequila Research Institute. I can assure you, this is definitely the place to go if you are looking to get schooled in tequila drinking, sipping and tasting. The cantina has over 115 different types of tequilas. If that alone isn’t quite your thing, then maybe one of their drink specials (which feature all types of booze) will do the trick.
Casa Que Pasa’s cantina, known as the Tequila Research Institute, has over 115 different tequilas to choose from. Photo credit: Sarah Day.
Still thirsty? “Our Tequila 101 program rewards you for tasting tequila,” Willows says, and he’s right. For every 15 tequilas tasted there are rewards in the form of free food, and once you have completed all 72 tequilas you will be gifted an exclusive T-shirt and a lifetime discount on premium tequila.
Having been a landmark of the Bellingham food scene for many years, Casa Que Pasa is all about community. The restaurant is always looking for new ways to give back to Bellingham and its people. Recently, Casa has donated proceeds from their sales of Jumbo Potato Burritos to The Alternative Library, Conservation Northwest and The Volunteer Center of Whatcom County.
Willows says community service is an indispensable aspect of doing business and it is a no-brainer to give back to the community that has treated himself and his staff so well. “We live, work, play and raise our families in this great city,” Willows says. “Many of our customers and employees directly benefit from the incredible network of social services in Bellingham and we all benefit from a strong and stable community.”
Casa Que Pasa’s Vegan Supercrunch – it’s portions are just as big as non-vegan options. Photo credit: Sarah Day.
Casa Que Pasa is a uniquely Bellingham restaurant. From the vibrant and full-of-character atmosphere outlined by tons of art from local artists to the funky and wonderful Tequila Research Institute in the back, Casa Que Pasa’s oddities make it an enjoyable space to spend time in. “We’re the perfect place to go after swimming, biking, hiking during the summer. Our food is delicious, our portions are huge and our prices are reasonable,” Willows says.
Don’t forget to check out Casa Que Pasa’s happy hour which runs Sunday through Thursday from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. And don’t forget, the Tequila Research Institute serves up $1 tacos every day, after 11:00 p.m.
Casa Que Pasa
1415 Railroad Ave.
Bellingham, WA
360-756-8226
Kids will have a blast at the Ferndale Street Festival. Photo courtesy: Ferndale Chamber of Commerce.
As 2017 marks the fourteenth year of the Ferndale Street Festival (on August 25 and 26), the Ferndale Chamber of Commerce is in full swing to make it an event that will be the talk of Whatcom County once again. Attracting as many as 10,000 people, this event is one of the largest in Whatcom County. It brings with it a variety of activities and vendors for all. With easy, clearly marked parking, the Ferndale Street Festival is the place to be the last weekend in August.
Dive into some fun at the Ferndale Street Festival. Photo courtesy: Ferndale Chamber of Commerce.
This year the not-to-miss Blueberry Pie Eating contest is perfect for those ready to take on the challenge of fast and fun pie eating. Are you ready to claim the title of Pie Eating Champion in this first annual event? Here is your chance to capture that one-of-a-kind pie trophy.
The dinosaur themed Kid’s Street features a children’s entertainment stage with entertainers, a reptile exhibit and even kids’ Zumba. And, with this dinosaur theme, each child is encouraged to dress up as their favorite dinosaur for the two days of fun in downtown Ferndale. The petting zoo and dinosaur bouncy house are sure to be among the favorite activities for everyone visiting Kid’s Street.
The summer isn’t complete until you experience the Ferndale Street Festival. Photo courtesy: Ferndale Chamber of Commerce.
Friday night and all day Saturday are full of live music on the main stage. Catch this array of local talent while you enjoy a beverage in the beer and wine tent. The tent will feature beer, wine and hard cider and is right next to several food vendors making it convenient to enjoy your favorite drink.
Ready to see some of your favorite cars? Be sure to stop by the car show that is held on Saturday, August 26 in Downtown Ferndale.
So come on down for this year’s Ferndale Street Festival and enjoy great music, fun activities and the beauty of Downtown Ferndale. We’ll see you there!
Here we are already—the last weekend in August. Make sure your summer goes out with a bang by taking part in some of these great Whatcom County weekend events for Aug. 25—27. And be sure to check out our great local farmers’ markets. They are still in full swing. The produce is ripe and ready to enjoy! And don’t forget to check our full events calendar for all the great local happenings this weekend.
WhatcomTalk aims to be your source for positive information and events happening in Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden and throughout Whatcom County. If you have a suggestion for a post, send us a note at submit@whatcomtalk.com. For more events and to learn what’s happening in Bellingham and the surrounding area, visit our events calendar. To submit an event of your own, visit our events calendar and click on the green “Post Your Event” button.
Kohlrabi is the perfect addition to this salad. Photo credit: Frank Koterba.
Submitted by: Joe’s Gardens, written by Frank Koterba
Joe’s Garden’s presents another delicious recipe by Frank Koterba—Kohlrabi Salad with Lemon Sea Salt and Olive Oil. This is a great way to feature really fresh kohlrabi. You could also add fresh daikon radish or carrots.
Kohlrabi is the perfect addition to this salad. Photo credit: Frank Koterba.
Number of Servings: 4
Ingredients
3 large kohlrabies, grated or julienned
¼ c. lemon juice, or more to taste
Lemon zest from 2 lemons
1 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste
½ c. extra-virgin olive oil
Directions
I ran the kohlrabi through my mandolin to save time.
Combine kohlrabi, lemon zest, juice and salt in a medium bowl. Allow to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes. Stir in olive oil. Adjust seasoning as necessary to taste. Serve or let sit, covered, at room temperature for up to six hours until ready to serve.
The Arch of Healing and Reconciliation will be a welcoming symbol. Photo courtesy: Paul Englesberg.
Submitted by: Paul Englesberg
Groundbreaking for the Arch of Healing and Reconciliation, a granite monument honoring Whatcom County’s immigrant communities, will be Labor Day, Sept. 4, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. across from Bellingham City Hall. The arch monument will honor the brave immigrants to the Pacific Northwest from China, India and Japan, and recognize all immigrants who have come to America since the 1800s seeking better opportunities for themselves and their families through hard work and determination.
The Arch of Healing and Reconciliation will be a welcoming symbol. Photo courtesy: Paul Englesberg.
In issuing a proclamation of support, Mayor Kelli Linville stated that the Arch, “symbolizes our renewed commitment to American democratic values and … will celebrate the rich diversity that provides energy and creativity for generations to come.”
The arch, 12 feet high and made of 10 tons of solid red granite from India, is the first part of a multifaceted project to honor and remember the contributions, sacrifices and bravery of the community’s immigrants. The work is led by a group of Whatcom County residents, including the Lynden Sikh Temple, an initial funder of the project, which has pledged $50,000 in matching funds for the project. The Whatcom Community Foundation (WCF), the fiscal sponsor for the program, also pledged $25,000 in matching funds at their July board meeting. As WCF is a non-profit organization, all donations are tax-deductible.
Plans for the Arch have been well-received by the Bellingham City Council, the City Arts Commission and the City Parks Board with unanimous approval. Installation is planned for April 2018.
While the arch is under construction, the Arch Committee continues to raise funds for two more elements of this initiative celebrating the community’s immigrants: a scholarship fund to help children of first-generation immigrants go to college, and an annual ethnic food festival in Bellingham on Labor Day. The committee plans to raise about $2 million, with the bulk of the funds going toward the scholarship fund, which will provide significant educational opportunities in higher education for new immigrant families and their children.
“We believe the best way to honor our ancestors is to educate our future generations. While the granite memorial will be a symbolic reminder about our history, we consider this a learning moment for us all Americans to be vigilant so that such events never happen in the future,” said Satpal Sidhu, a Whatcom County Councilmember and Chair of the Arch of Healing organization.
Bellingham has a long, proud history of immigrants traveling through on their way up and down the West Coast. Many have settled here and have made significant contributions to the community, but the community hasn’t always been a welcoming place for immigrants. Chinese, Indian and Japanese immigrants, in particular, were targeted and forcibly removed from the community. The arch, which will be located on the corner of Lottie and North Commercial streets on the lawn behind the Bellingham Public Library, will include bronze plaques with dates and short descriptions of three episodes in Whatcom County in which immigrants were targeted for removal: Chinese Americans in 1885, Sikhs, Muslims and Hindus from India in 1907, and Japanese Americans in 1942.
The base of the arch will have 18-inch-square black granite tiles with “welcome” in multiple languages, with special recognition being made to Lummi and Nooksack tribes. Paul Englesberg, a local historian and member of Arch committee, noted, “The historical legacy in Bellingham and Whatcom County of intolerance and hostility towards native peoples, African Americans and immigrants is now being recognized and transformed with community initiatives that demonstrate respect, cooperation and solidarity.”
The goal of all facets of the project is to create teaching and learning opportunities for future generations in the hope of avoiding additional anti-immigrant sentiment and violence. “Never have we been so keenly aware of how bigotry can unravel the fabric of our society. The arch symbolizes respect for others, fairness and opportunity for all – internationally recognized values of hope. It’s time to pitch in and make this project a reality,” said Tim Douglas, former Bellingham Mayor and vice chair of Arch Committee.
Plans for the arch began in 2007 when members of the Lynden Sikh Temple began thinking of ways to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 1907 forced removal of Sikh timber mill workers from Bellingham. Over time, plans expanded to include commemorating the expulsions of Chinese and Japanese Americans as well. Further plans developed to establish a lasting monument to honor the community’s history of immigrants with a higher education scholarship and an annual food festival. Terry Bornemann, long-time Bellingham City Council member and member of Arch Committee reflected, “During our current troubled times the soon to be erected Arch of Healing and Reconciliation will serve as both a reminder of our past deplorable events aimed toward the Sikh, Chinese and Japanese immigrant populations and as a welcoming beacon for future immigrants coming to our city.”
The Bellingham SeaFeast is a celebration of our abundant marine waters. Photo courtesy: Bellingham SeaFeast.
Whatcom County is home to generations of commercial fishermen, boat builders, fish processors and others associated with our vibrant maritime industry. Supporting several thousand jobs, our amazing local waterfront resources provide an incredible legacy that enhances our community strength and growth.
With hands-on activities and live demos, Bellingham SeaFeast makes the waterfront come to life for the community. Photo courtesy: Bellingham SeaFeast.
September 22 and 23 mark the second annual Bellingham SeaFeast celebrating our waterfront’s history, lifestyle and community benefits. This year it is stacking up to be even bigger and better than before. It is designed to address all maritime aspects with something for everyone.
“We in Bellingham and Whatcom County are truly blessed with abundant marine waters,” says Debbie Granger, General Manager for Bellingham SeaFeast. “I firmly believe that by getting people down to the waterfront – offering folks a chance to feel and learn how precious and magical it is – that’s how we preserve and enhance it so that it will endure and continue to bless our families for generations to come.”
Through presenting sponsors City of Bellingham and the Port of Bellingham, providing grants and access to facilities, this event has been made possible beyond expectation. Haggen Northwest Fresh also shares the Bellingham SeaFeast vision through their three-year sponsorship commitment, joining dozens of other community partners. “There’s nothing that speaks to our Bellingham roots more than seafood from the Pacific,” says Haggen Northwest Fresh Marketing Event Coordinator Kaily Hetherton. “We love to connect face-to-face with our fellow seafood lovers. We hope to help people understand that there’s so much more to good seafood than just the taste. Understanding where it comes from and how it was caught is crucial to all of our continued enjoyment of this incredible bounty.”
Friday night, Bellingham SeaFeast 2017 kicks off this spectacular weekend with not-to-be missed experiences that take you into life on the waterfront. You will be mesmerized by the FisherPoets-on-Bellingham Bay telling stories of life at sea. You’ll hear original poems, watch fascinating videos and experience sea shanties inspired by those who have lived this life.
Watch a mock rescue at sea by the Coast Guard as you experience life on the waterfront. Photo courtesy: Bellingham SeaFeast.
New to Bellingham SeaFeast this year is the fabulous SeaFeed at the Square, a ticketed event highlighting Friday night ($50 in advance online). Imagine enjoying local craft beer or wine at the Depot Market Square while savoring raw and grilled oysters from Taylor Shellfish Farms and Drayton Harbor Oyster Company. You’ll also dine on melt-in-your-mouth salmon, and an old-fashioned crab boil with locally-grown corn and other ingredients prepared by Crave Catering. Bornstein Seafoods has donated the salmon and Dungeness crab.
On Saturday, Bellingham SeaFeast will offer engaging opportunities all day (11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.) centered on our vibrant marine industry and waterfront activities. At the new SeaFeast Wharf containing over 90 booths, you’ll have hands-on educational activity, enjoy a maritime-themed Art Walk and other vendors. This Explore Some More experience is much more than handing out pamphlets; these themed non-profit and maritime related booths are challenged to create interactive fun.
Listen to live music until 8 o’clock. Step aboard a working commercial fishing boat and discover the different aspects of life at sea. Then take in demos of net mending and knot tying during a Dock Walk. You are sure to find this experience full of wonder and excitement.
The Bellingham SeaFeast is a celebration of our abundant marine waters. Photo courtesy: Bellingham SeaFeast.
Taste the Sea: A Sustainable Seafood Experience is another new, ticketed dining activity on Saturday at the Squalicum Boathouse ($10 adults/$5 kids online). This event features samplings of salmon, cod, mussels and other types of seafood from global brands, prepared using different methods. As you weave through the tables, you will learn from chefs, caterers and fish buyers a lot of vital information, including origination and preparation. “We are excited to share our passion for sustainably harvested seafood with attendees at the Taste the Sea event,” says Hetherton. “The bounty of the ocean is precious and finite, and it’s more important than ever to use fishing methods that preserve the diversity of species and habitat – so that SeaFeast can continue for generations to come.”
As you follow the crowds flocking to the water, you’ll become a part of the excitement witnessing a dramatic and true-to-life Coast Guard rescue at sea. Check out a real Coast Guard cutter and experience first-hand the daily environment of those serving in this maritime military branch.
In addition to the incredible dinner and tastings, sample the salmon and cast your vote in the new “People’s Choice” category at the second annual Salmon BBQ Grilling Championships. In this ticketed event ($1 per sample, on site), you watch as 10 teams compete and are judged by members of the seafood industry.
SeaFeast will offer food, entertainment and more. Photo courtesy: Bellingham SeaFeast.
Tying all of this together are two harbor boat rides and tours – one to Bellingham Cold Storage ice house and Home Port Seafood Inc. processing plant, and the other cruising the harbor. Get your ticket online ($10 adult/$5 kids) for a firsthand look at how seafood is harvested, prepared and readied for distribution, and a guided view of the waterfront redevelopment project.
Ready for more food after all of those activities? With 16 food vendors and traditional Lummi Nation open-pit grilled salmon in the food court, you are sure to find the perfect meal. Wash it all down with a beer from the Brews with a View Beer Garden, presented by Boundary Bay Brewery & Bistro (also one of the FisherPoets’ four venues on Friday).
Bellingham SeaFeast is a celebration of our historic maritime industry and a celebration of our community. This feast of seafood takes place along Bellingham’s working waterfront which is ever-changing, developing with the times and local needs. It is an event that brings us all together to learn and thrive as a community.
With several thousand expected to attend this year’s Bellingham SeaFeast, this community gathering will continue to grow. Become even more involved in this spectacular event by becoming a sponsor, a volunteer, or even a FisherPoets presenter. “We want attendees to gain an appreciation for the amazing bounty of our precious waters and all these waters have to offer our community,” states Granger.
Musical Storytelling with Mount Baker Theatre will take your breath away. Photo courtesy: Mount Baker Theatre.
Do you appreciate musicals? Documentaries? Good old-fashioned concerts? Then you will definitely enjoy shows of the theatrical concert experience genre. Never heard of it? It’s a live performance that combines the best elements of watching a live documentary, a Broadway musical and a stadium concert all rolled into one. That mixture can take you back in time—bringing up old memories or providing new context for the past—and let you celebrate the music on a much deeper level. Mount Baker Theatre’sRenowned Sounds just happens to have four great shows ahead that can all help you see why a theatrical concert experience is a truly profound way to appreciate the music you love.
Saturday, October 14 is your chance to relive your favorite songs by one of the most powerful female singers of her time. Texan Janis Joplin shot to the top of the music charts beginning in 1967 with greats like “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Piece of My Heart,” “Mercedes Benz,” “Cry Baby” and “Summertime”to become the queen of rock ‘n’ roll.
Her unique, distinctive voice, emotionally honest messages and powerful, short life are brought back to us once again through Broadway storytelling. Also celebrated are those that came before her—those blues, soul, gospel and rock singers that influenced her music and performance—Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Odetta, Nina Simone and Bessie Smith.
This exhilarating musical takes you back to witness her volcanic performances, one-of-a-kind style and fearless delivery at places like the Monterey Pop Festival and Woodstock. Revisiting her music will also help you hear hints of those that have been influenced by her music.
By the end of this fabulous show, you’ll feel like you were there when it all happened.
You can take a stroll through history with one of the world’s most successful music duos, Simon and Garfunkel on Sunday, October 29. This moving story portrays how two young boys from Queens, New York made a lasting impression on millions with their acoustic guitar and incredible, lasting harmonies.
Transport back through time with songs like “Mrs. Robinson,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “Homeward Bound,” “Scarborough Fair,” “The Boxer,” “Cecelia,” “The Sound Of Silence” and many more. The Simon & Garfunkel Story enjoyed sold-out performances in London’s West End and is touring around the globe.
Critics agree that the production respects the music itself and that the singers faithfully match the vocal harmonies of this masterful duo with pitch perfect sensitivity. With a full live band and state-of-the-art lighting and projection, this show will make you feel like you were there with them as they made history.
Through the eyes of the spirited Irish people, this production brings forth the stories of the brave and adventurous who left behind their families and lives, traveling across the challenging seas to new opportunity in the wilds of American and Australia, bringing with them their heritage and culture.
Through Irish song and dance, we see the stubborn survival instinct of a people fleeing famine and sorrow to find hope and laughter.
Performed by some of the Emerald Isle’s finest vocalists and dancers, this show is like the voyage they lived, with twists and turns, inspiration and sincerity. Rich costumes and visual imagery adds additional depth to the performance.
You’ll also witness the influence of the old music on what became American sounds. You’ll recognize hints of Bluegrass, Appalachian, Country and Western and enjoy the lasting songs and ballads. Sing along with your favorites like “Danny Boy,” “Isle of Hope,” “Whiskey in the Jar” and “My Love is in America.” The jigs and reels, hornpipes and polkas with have you foot tapping in your seat. Perhaps you’ll be transported back to the time you first heard or learned a tune—in childhood, at a show, while traveling or with old friends and new in a pub.
Celtic Nights—Oceans of Hope will take you on a trip—full of song and dance—for just one magical night.
On Saturday, March 3, you can experience the lasting influence of American folk music by taking a musical journey exploring the history of Americana with the folk legend Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul and Mary. Lonesome Traveler: The Concert with Peter Yarrow is the concert version of the critically-acclaimed off-Broadway musical.
Yarrow and his group of versatile and talented young performers celebrates the music of great folk artists from the ‘20s to the ‘60s including Woody Guthrie; Pete Seeger and the Weavers; Gordon Lightfoot; Peter, Paul and Mary; Bob Dylan; the Byrds; Cat Stevens; Don McLean; James Taylor; and Van Morrison including a special tribute to Leonard Cohen.
This immersive, modern multimedia concert will take you back in time to when you first heard the greats. The cast will encourage you to sing along with tunes like “If I Had a Hammer,” “Puff The Magic Dragon,” “This Land is Your Land,” “Blowin’ in the Wind” and “Hallelujah.” The songs are honored through skilled performances with guitar, banjo, ukulele, harmonica, keyboards and bass fiddle.
You won’t want to miss this show that took NAACP Award-winner James O’Neil four years to create. Musical direction by Tony nominee Dan Wheetman and orchestrations by Grammy Award-winner George Grove of the Kingston Trio make this an unforgettable experience.
Whether you take the ride through Mount Baker Theatre’s theatrical concert experiences with the raw emotion of Janis Joplin, the iconic harmonies of Simon & Garfunkel, the Irish people coming to new lives and lands, or with Peter Yarrow across American folk history, you’re sure to be instantly transported back to their era. Each journey promises to be as entertaining, memorable and inspirational as the classic music they share.
Signs Plus, Inc. made the Lummi Island Wild truck truly eye catching. Photo courtesy: Signs Plus, Inc.
With eight of the only twelve reefnetting commercial fishing organizations in the world right here in Whatcom County, Lummi Island Wild is among the unique and truly sustainable businesses that bring our local fish to our grocery stores and ultimately our dinner tables.
Lummi Island Wild is a local treasure and now they have a sign as special as they are. Photo courtesy: Signs Plus, Inc.
Lummi Island Wild, a locally-owned cooperative business, takes fishing and quality very seriously. From the fishing to the processing, they are part of every step – ensuring the highest quality of their products. As a result, they have become known and respected by authors, chefs, restauranteurs and, of course, our families.
Reefnetting, a historic Pacific Northwest fishing method, involves a spotter who calls to have the nets raised when he sees a school of salmon in place. The salmon are then rolled over the platform and into holding tanks full of seawater where they are allowed to rest. At that point, any unwanted bycatch is released unharmed back into the sea. “We do it differently and we do it better,” says Keith Carpenter, President and Executive Director of Lummi Island Wild. “We are committed to making things better.”
Lummi Island Wild sells directly to local stores, such as Haggen Northwest Fresh and Community Food Co-op, as well as restaurants and even Microsoft. They recently launched their new online store offering a variety of high quality products. And, as the sole provider of pink salmon for Patagonia through their Patagonia Provisions line, they know that their dedication to providing high quality products through a humane and sustainable approach has paid off.
From concept to creation, Signs Plus, Inc. provides clients with innovative ways to build brand identity and strong awareness. Photo courtesy: Signs Plus, Inc.
After five years of building their cooperative business, Carpenter explains that it was time to begin building their brand identity and increase awareness of their business and its story. “You can’t tell a story by just putting a fish in a fish case,” says Carpenter.
To that end, Lummi Island Wild enlisted the help of Bellingham’s Signs Plus, Inc. Carpenter knows the importance of having that strong brand identity, which sets the stage for them to tell their incredible story. With a new location packed with inventory, they are ready to focus more heavily on branding for the business. “We wanted to keep our logo moving forward because it’s who we are,” explains Carpenter. “Now we have that brand identity and we can tell our story.” The Lummi Island Wild logo consists of an image of the traditional spotter that goes hand in hand with their identity.
Jim Sutterfield and the team at Signs Plus, Inc. helped Lummi Island Wild create a look and a color palette using their existing logo. Then they set to work to create a presence and identity that would be seen and discussed around town.
Lummi Island Wild turned to Signs Plus, Inc. for guidance in creating their brand. Photo courtesy: Signs Plus, Inc.
Signs Plus, Inc., a locally owned creative agency, delivers innovative signs that build strong brand identity for clients. What makes them unique is their passionate focus on clear communication and their commitment to discussion through the entire process from planning to installation.
Sutterfield and his team looked at the project, made suggestions and worked through the process with Lummi Island Wild to create that brand identity and presence that would successfully share their brand and story.
“They didn’t tell us what to do,” says Carpenter. “They helped us make better decisions.”
What resulted was a new wrap for the Lummi Island Wild delivery truck along with a sign to hang above the door at their new location. Carpenter enthusiastically says that the truck has made a huge difference in creating presence for the local business. “Jim and his team made this project much better than we ever thought it would be,” says Carpenter. “I hear, ‘That’s the most beautiful truck,’ whenever someone in town sees it.”
Lummi Island Wild connected with Signs Plus, Inc. through word of mouth. “I received really high recommendations for Signs Plus, Inc.,” says Carpenter. “They got our business because of the work they have done for other businesses.”
Signs Plus, Inc. made the Lummi Island Wild truck truly eye catching. Photo courtesy: Signs Plus, Inc.
Carpenter knows the importance of trust when it comes to delivering high quality products. “Partnerships of all types are important in business,” says Carpenter. “To be successful you need to have the right partners. I consider Signs Plus, Inc. a good business partner.”
Carpenter goes on to say that a business needs to recognize if they need help in building a strong brand. Finding a great partner like Signs Plus, Inc. is vital to building that awareness and identity.
You are sure to see the Lummi Island Wild truck around town. It has truly created conversations. “We’re ready to build our marketing presence,” says Carpenter. “We’ve got Signs Plus, Inc. to help with that.”
Submitted by Barron Heating, AC, Electrical & Plumbing
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